Computer Software

[Dcnlarry]

Hello All: What software do you folks use to convert photos to line drawings? I am using a Mac and I believe that kind of limits the packages available. Any suggestions for a beginner to make patterns? Thanks and cheers, Larry

[Rustic Rick]

I would be interested too

[Camel]

For the PC I use Paint.net
It's freeware and works great.
Camel

[Dcnlarry]

Hello Camel: That looks good, but like stated I use a Mac...oh well. Thanks, Larry

[kdispoto]

I been using use a freebie called IrfanView for about 10 years(IrfanView - Official Homepage - one of the most popular viewers worldwide)

It's not exactly user friendly but it sure has mucho features.
Once you get the hang of it - it comes in real handy for all sorts of things
Cropping, resizing, etc

I just quickly (30 seconds) tried doing a line image of a Santa face I did and here's the results. Of course other photos may work better or worse

Used the following tools...
Image - Effects - Image Detection
Image - Negative
Image - Decrease Color Depth

[Dcnlarry]

Thanks for the reply Ken, I will give this program a look/see. Thanks, Larry

[Shimmy]

I also have been using Irfanview for about 10 yrs.It is a great program for doing patterns.resizing and nowing the size you want to fit the piece of wood you have.to use.

[kdispoto]

I should also say that many times I have use a cad program (Autocad) for tracing over photos. It takes longer but the results are a lot more reliable. I'm pretty sure there are free cad programs available. -You might want to check into that too.

[Norm3206]

I just downloaded irfanview and tried it on a couple photos. So far I'm impressed. It completes a decent line drawing of both I tried.

[WoodCarverOH]

Gimp and Inkscape are also free downloadable programs and tutorials on use can be found here.